Absorption and translocation of foliar-applied iron.

The absorption of (59)Fe(3+) by the leaves of various plant species was studied. Stomata were found to play a major role in foliar absorption when leaves were totally submerged in treatment solutions, and a correlation was found to exist between stomatal area and absorption. Day treated leaves absorbed much more than did night treated leaves. The use of a surfactant markedly increased absorption. Translocation from treated leaves was demonstrated and was found to vary with species.